Joseph Parker Upsets Deontay Wilder, Shakes Up Future Boxing Plans
Entering the ‘Day of Reckoning’ boxing event on Saturday, the expectation was that both Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua would get wins to lock in a future bout between the two in 2024. But Joseph Parker had other plans. In the co-main event, Parker pulled off an upset unanimous decision victory over Wilder, effectively ending the potential Wilder vs. Joshua headlining event.
Parker’s Dominant Victory
In the co-main event, Joseph Parker secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Deontay Wilder. This surprising outcome has shaken up the future plans for Wilder and Joshua. Parker’s win has put him in the spotlight as a viable challenger to any of the division’s elite fighters.
Joshua’s Impressive Win
In the main event, Anthony Joshua delivered his most impressive win of the year with a fifth-round stoppage of Otto Wallin. Joshua’s victory has gained him momentum and solidified his position as one of the best heavyweights in the world. Promoter Eddie Hearn believes that 2024 will be a massive year for Joshua.
Options for Joshua after Parker’s Upset Victory
Former heavyweight champions Joshua and Wilder needed to win Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to move onto a long-awaited meeting on March 9. However, Parker’s victory over Wilder has changed the plans. Now, Joshua could potentially fight Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic on March 9 for the vacant IBF heavyweight title. The winner of the Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk fight on Feb. 17 will be obligated to fight Hrgovic immediately afterward or vacate the title. With the likelihood of the winner vacating, Joshua will have the opportunity to fight for the title.
Wilder’s Uncertain Future
Following his loss to Parker, Deontay Wilder’s future in boxing is unclear. His latest loss, his third in four fights, has diminished the appeal of a potential Joshua-Wilder matchup. Wilder, who appeared lethargic and reluctant to unleash his trademark right hand, is sure to fall several spots in the heavyweight rankings. On the other hand, Parker’s victory has revived his career and positioned him as a formidable challenger in the division.
Bivol and Beterbiev on a Collision Course
Dmitry Bivol’s shutout decision victory over Lyndon Arthur brings him one step closer to a potential undisputed light heavyweight title showdown against Artur Beterbiev. Bivol’s performance was impressive, although he missed out on a knockout victory. Both Bivol and Beterbiev are highly ranked and a fight between them would be one of the best matchups boxing can offer in 2024.
Opetaia Proves His World-Class Status
Jai Opetaia showcased his superiority in the cruiserweight division with a stunning first-round knockout of Ellis Zorro. Despite this being a non-title bout, Opetaia’s performance solidifies him as the best cruiserweight in the world. Opetaia’s next challenge is likely to be Mairis Briedis in an attempt to win back the IBF belt.
Dubois Gets Back on Track
Daniel Dubois revived his career with an impressive win over Jarrell Miller. Although he is still far from world title opportunities, Dubois has time on his side and this victory puts him back into title contention. A fight against Agit Kabayel could be a bold move for Dubois and accelerate his career.
Kabayel Earns Step Up in Competition
Agit Kabayel’s fourth-round TKO victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov propels him to a meaningful heavyweight bout in 2024. Kabayel’s dominant performance positions him as a viable opponent for top fighters like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Sanchez Remains Undefeated
Frank Sanchez maintained his undefeated record with a seventh-round TKO of Junior Fa. While he secured the win, Sanchez’s performance did not impress, leaving doubts about his ability to compete at a higher level. Sanchez needs to face tougher opponents to truly test his skills and determine his potential.